Announced at the search engine giant’s I/O tech conference last Tuesday, Android P is the next generation of Google’s popular smartphone software. The new operating system is brimming with new features aimed at improving usability and performance.

An official release date is expected within the coming weeks. Until then, here’s everything you need to know about the mobile system:

What is Android P?

Android P is a new mobile operating system designed for upcoming smartphones and tablets.

Google names its Android systems after sweets and desserts, rather than referring to each software version by number. The names include Jelly Bean, Honeycomb and Marshmallow.

The new version, Android P, is no exception to the unconventional nomenclature.

According to the Daily Express, Android P is currently being dubbed Pistachio Ice Cream, although insiders are tipping the name Pineapple Upsidedown Cake.

The software will replace Android Oreo, also referred to as version 8.0, which is currently used on flagship smartphones including the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Google Pixel 2.

The operating system will not be available on iPhones or iPads, since Apple develops its own software, called iOS, which is exclusive to its own devices.

When does Android P come out and which phones will use it?

Google hasn’t confirmed the release date for Android P, but Trusted Reviews says some analysts believe a launch window of August is likely.

According to the website, a number of smartphone makers have already announced which of their devices will support the new software.

These include the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S9, the OnePlus 6 and every Motorola smartphone launched in 2017 and 2018. Google’s Pixel range will also support Android P, as will a host of LG’s latest devices.

What’s new?

Android P is packed with new features, many of which are designed to make the software more intuitive to use.

Arguably the most significant upgrade is support for phones with dual rear-facing cameras, says Expert Reviews. Users with dual-camera smartphones will be able to utilise features such as twin-lens zooming and to experiment with different aperture settings.

Another major addition coming to the operating system is Android Dashboard, the reviews site says. This feature helps users cut back on the amount of time they spend on their smartphone, allowing them to monitor how often they unlock their device and how long they use specific apps.

Users can even set timers that will tick down once they begin using an app.

According to ZDNet, Google has also revamped the way users navigate their smartphone. Instead of using the trio of buttons that have appeared on Android phones for years, users will navigate the operating system with a series of gestures and swiping motions.

Other features include adaptive battery and brightness settings, as well as suggestions for music playlists when connecting to a Bluetooth speaker.